"Why I’m Finally Celebrating My Birthday"

I turned 44 this year. I don't think I have ever publicly acknowledged my birthday. I've always tried to keep it under wraps because I have never really felt like celebrating myself. That's in the past.

I’ve decided: I’m worth celebrating.

My life—and who I am—matters to those around me, and that is good.

I know some of you know exactly what I'm talking about. Others of you have probably been shouting your birthday from rooftops forever, and that's awesome. But for many of us who’ve experienced trauma of one kind or another, birthdays can feel more like painful reminders than joyful milestones. That has been my story… until now.

This year, I’m rewriting that story.

Not only am I celebrating who God made me to be—I’m making a sacred commitment to myself.

I choose to Love, Honor, and Nourish myself in mind, body, spirit every day until death do us part.

I live in this body. And honestly?

I want to enjoy it.

I’m done wishing things—or I—were different. I want to be strong, healthy, and whole in mind, body, and spirit.

For too many years, I sacrificed myself on the altar of busyness and things that—if I’m honest—aren’t that important in the grand scheme of life.

But some intense health trials in my family this past year brought crystal clarity about what really matters:

How you show up to your life, and how you show up for your family, is what truly matters.

Coming to each day with energy, joy, and wonder gives life to you—and to everyone around you. But you can’t do that if you’re constantly neglecting yourself.

Women, We Must Start With Ourselves

As women, we often put ourselves last.

We pour out endlessly, hoping it’s enough. But here's the truth:

You can’t Love, Honor, and Nourish others if you’re not doing it for yourself first.

When you care deeply for yourself, you stop merely surviving. You start thriving. You live full—and you pour the beauty and glory of life into those around you.

The world is hungry for the well-nourished, well-loved version of you.

It Starts With These 4 Steps

1. Honesty

Be honest with yourself about where you are in your mind, body, and spirit.

2. Acceptance

Recognize where you are today—and choose to simply accept it, without shame.

3. Commitment

Commit to Love, Honor, and Nourish yourself each day in some small way.

4. Perseverance

Challenges will come. Choose to keep showing up through continued honesty, acceptance, and commitment.

You are worth celebrating. You are worth caring for. Let this be the year you commit to yourself—fully and unapologetically.